Tasty Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
Tasty Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a festive treat that brings together the sweet and tangy flavor of cranberries with the creamy saltiness of feta cheese, all wrapped up in…
Tip: save now, cook later.Tasty Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels are a festive treat that brings together the sweet and tangy flavor of cranberries with the creamy saltiness of feta cheese, all wrapped up in soft, flaky pastry. These little pinwheels look pretty on any holiday table and are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the season.
I love making these pinwheels because they’re easy to prepare but always impress everyone who tries them. The combination of cranberries and feta is such a nice surprise in every bite, and the way the pinwheels bake up golden and crisp makes them hard to resist. I like to make a batch early in the day so they have time to cool and slice neatly before guests arrive.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy these pinwheels is alongside a warm cup of tea or as an appetizer at a holiday party. They’re perfect for nibbling while catching up with loved ones. Plus, they’re a fun, colorful addition to the spread that adds a little extra cheer to the season!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base that makes the pinwheels light and flaky. If you can’t find puff pastry, phyllo dough can be an alternative, though it requires more handling and won’t be as fluffy.
Feta Cheese: Its salty and tangy flavor balances the sweetness of cranberries. If you prefer milder cheese, goat cheese works well. For a vegan option, use a plant-based feta substitute.
Dried Cranberries: They add a burst of sweetness and a festive red color. Dried cherries or raisins can be used instead if cranberries aren’t available.
Spinach: Adds freshness and a pop of green. You can swap it with kale or Swiss chard for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Herbs and Seasoning: Fresh rosemary adds a piney aroma perfect for the holidays. If you’re not a fan, try thyme or omit the herbs. Garlic powder gives a gentle savory note without overpowering.
How Do You Roll and Slice Puff Pastry Without It Falling Apart?
Rolling puff pastry evenly and slicing neat pinwheels can be tricky. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Make sure the puff pastry is well chilled but pliable. Warm or sticky pastry will be harder to handle.
- Use a lightly floured surface and rolling pin so the dough doesn’t stick, but use just enough flour to avoid drying it out.
- Roll the dough out to a neat rectangle of about 12×9 inches for even pinwheels.
- Spread fillings evenly but don’t overload, as too much can make rolling difficult.
- Roll tightly starting from a long edge to create a firm log.
- Use a very sharp knife to cut pinwheels cleanly. Wipe the blade between cuts if needed.
- Place pinwheels cut-side up with space in between so they can expand while baking.
Following these tips will help your pinwheels hold their shape, bake evenly, and look pretty on the plate!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for baking the pinwheels evenly and catching any drips.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll the puff pastry smoothly to the right size.
- Sharp knife – essential for cutting clean, even pinwheel slices without squashing them.
- Small mixing bowl – to combine the cheeses and herbs into a smooth filling.
- Pastry brush – great for brushing the egg wash to get a shiny, golden crust.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier, milder flavor that still pairs well with cranberries.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty taste.
- Use fresh thyme instead of rosemary for a softer herbal aroma that’s less piney.
- Mix in finely diced cooked bacon for a smoky, savory twist that adds depth.
Tasty Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-18 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll have these festive pinwheels ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for quick holiday appetizers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the oven and baking sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the pinwheels from sticking and make clean-up simple.
2. Roll and mix the filling:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle about 12×9 inches. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, crumbled feta, garlic powder, and chopped rosemary until well combined.
3. Assemble the pinwheels:
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a little space around the edges. Sprinkle the chopped spinach and dried cranberries evenly on top.
4. Roll and slice:
Starting from one long edge, roll the puff pastry tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch thick slices for your pinwheels.
5. Bake and serve:
Place the pinwheels cut-side up on your baking sheet, with about 1 inch between each. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden color. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until puffed and golden brown. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for These Pinwheels?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before rolling it out. This helps prevent tearing and ensures even baking.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pinwheels, place them on the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to keep the pastry crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
Goat cheese is a great alternative for a creamy, mild tang. If you prefer something milder, cream cheese alone works too. For vegan options, try plant-based feta cheese substitutes available at many stores.
